Lactobacilli bacteria live in the human small intestine and vagina. Lactobacillus acidophilus is a type of this bacteria generally considered to be beneficial, according to MedlinePlus, so it is called a probiotic. L. acidophilus produces vitamin K and anti-microbial substances, as well as lactase, the enzyme that breaks down the milk sugar lactose. L. acidophilus supplements usually are not associated with bad effects when used at recommended doses.
Minor Side Effects
The most common side effects reported with L. acidophilus oral tablets are gas and abdominal discomfort, as noted by MedlinePlus. These effects usually disappear with continued use, and may be decreased by reducing the daily dosage. MedlinePlus cautions people with intestinal damage or who have undergone recent bowel surgery not to take L. acidophilus supplements.
Heart Valve Infection
Rarely, L. acidophilus has been linked to infections of heart valves, and this risk may be higher in people with artificial heart valves. Anyone who has undergone heart valve replacement or who has a heart murmur should consult a health care professional before taking L. acidophilus supplements, advises InteliHealth.
Infectious Disease
People with certain health conditions causing them to be more prone to infectious disease may develop a serious infection when taking L. acidophilus supplements, warns InteliHealth. These include patients with weakened immune systems due to diseases such as AIDS. Some medications also increase the risk of infection, including corticosteroids, chemotherapy and immunosuppressant drugs.
Drug Interaction
L. acidophilus may decrease the effectiveness of the medication sulfasalazine, as noted by MedlinePlus. Doctors mainly prescribe this drug to treat symptoms of ulcerative colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease. These symptoms include bowel inflammation, abdominal pain, diarrhea and rectal bleeding. Doctors also prescribe sulfasalazine to treat inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
Vaginal Tablet Problems
L. acidophilus also is available in vaginal tablets for treating bacterial vaginosis, an infection with the main symptom of bad-smelling discolored discharge. Some women have reported side effects of irritation or burning sensations when using vaginal L. acidophilus suppositories, according to InteliHealth. Although several studies indicate that these suppositories are effective for treating bacterial vaginal infections, more research is needed to determine whether they can prevent or treat yeast infections, explains MedlinePlus.
Member Comments